Tohatsu 3.5 Odd Problem

[Willw]

I have an August 2003 Tohatsu 3.5 Engine which I run on my Avon Rover RIB.<br />I thought today that the outboard hadn't been run in over a month so took it outside and put it in the trough of water i usually use to clean it.<br />It started fine, I ran it on and off for about half an hour then tilted it up FORGETTING TO CLOSE THE FUEL AND AIR INLET ON THE FILLER CAP. I went inside to get a towel to dry it off and came back to see fuel leaking all out of the front by the controls and starter. I then got a little worried, put the engine back down and pulled the starter.<br /><br />It wouldnt go. After about 50-60 pulls it sparked, on about the third spark it began to turn over. The engine the started to run OK but there was a lot of smoke - but i'm pretty sure it usually smokes when it runs on high revs in the tank. I let it run and it seemed OK for about 5 mins then switched off and put it away.<br /><br />Was it my fault that this happened and fuel leaked out the engine or is there some problem???<br /><br />Please reply

 

[JB]

Re: Tohatsu 3.5 Odd Problem

Sounds like tilting her up prevents the float needle from shutting off flow into the bowl, Will.<br /><br />Flooded her.<br /><br />Remember next time you tilt her.

 

[vidar]

Re: Tohatsu 3.5 Odd Problem

hi! next time (you will do it) give full throttel till it starts..... a lot fewer pulls...

 

[Salmon Tub]

Re: Tohatsu 3.5 Odd Problem

Ya, it was. I have the same motor, and if you leave the valve open, and tilt the engine, or lay it down, the tank will drain into the carb. at that position, the fuel will leak through the throat to wherever gravity will take it. The carbs they use on those little motors have no bowls, floats... they are like the original "tin can" carbs used back in the way way old days. <br /><br />Just remeber to close the vavle, always, as well as the vent on top of the tank and you should be fine. <br /><br />Good luck.